With music dancing in the air, fireworks painting the night sky, and the spirit of global unity shining bright, Chengdu opened its arms to the world for the 12th edition of The World Games. Against the shimmering beauty of Qinhuang Lake, athletes from across the globe came together for an Opening Ceremony bursting with colour, culture, and celebration.
In a dazzling first for the Games, the cauldron was lit on water. To thunderous applause, Chinese waterski champions Xu Lu and Alu Xiaobo glided gracefully across the lake, torches blazing, before igniting the flame atop a dancing fountain. Fire and water united in a breathtaking display — a living symbol of harmony through contrast, setting the tone for ten extraordinary days ahead.
“When fire and water come together, we’re reminded that unity is always possible,” said Hu Xiao, the ceremony’s artistic director. “That’s what these Games are about.”
The Games were officially declared open by State Councilor Shen Yiqin, while IOC President Kirsty Coventry shared a heartfelt video message with the athletes.
“In your dedication and pursuit of excellence, don’t forget — sport is about joy. Enjoy the moment, give it your best, and make this a Games to remember.”
IWGA President José Perurena Lopez praised the warmth of the host city:
“Chengdu is not just the host of these Games — it is the soul. Thank you for embracing the world with such open arms.”
More than 6,600 athletes and officials from 115 countries and regions lit up the lakeside stage in a parade brimming with energy. Flags waved high, laughter filled the air, and spontaneous dancing broke out as the world celebrated together.
Representing the wider AIMS family, AIMS President Stephan Fox and Vice President Panagiotis Theodoropoulos proudly waved the flag for unity in sport, standing in full support of all disciplines and every AIMS member competing at The World Games.
After the parade, the night exploded into song, dance, and a breathtaking fireworks display. A glowing “W” for World illuminated the sky, while the Tree of Friendship — inspired by Chengdu’s beloved dove tree — bloomed in radiant lights, symbolising peace and global kinship.
Children’s voices from China, the U.S., Italy, and beyond joined together in the Games’ theme song Countless Wonders, their harmonies lifting the audience to its feet. “One world, one family — that’s the heart of these Games,” Hu Xiao reflected. “And what better way to say that than through children singing in harmony?”
The ceremony unfolded beneath the majestic Tianfu Roof — at 430 metres, the largest wooden structure in Asia. This architectural masterpiece became part of the spectacle, transforming into a vibrant LED canvas showcasing sports, cultural icons, and the World Games emblem. Even the surrounding city joined in, with nearby buildings glowing in colours for each of the 34 sports.
“We were inspired by the openness of Paris 2024 and wanted to create something equally special and true to Chengdu,” Hu said. “This lakeside stage gave us the perfect setting. With competitions now underway in 60 disciplines across 34 sports, Chengdu 2025 promises to be a festival of thrilling performances, inspiring moments, and lasting friendships”.
Gao Zhidan, President of the Chengdu Organizing Committee and the Chinese Olympic Committee, captured the city’s vision:
“We want these Games to be simple, safe, and splendid — and above all, full of joy. Sport has the power to connect people, uplift cities, and bring the world closer together.”
From the shimmering waters of Qinhuang Lake to the roaring cheers of the crowd, Chengdu has set the stage for ten days that will live long in memory. The World Games 2025 has begun — and the world is smiling together.
